Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - Re-Resurfacing Block Chimney > Quotes

I have a 25' high 30yr old Block Chimney that has been resurfaced at least twice in its history. The last time was about 6yrs ago by homeowner and has ~ 1/4" skin on it that is cracking and chipping off in significant chunks revealing increasing spots of moist blocks with some decay underneath. I have had 2 quotes (one for 9,500 to "full repair, lathe, and resurface with cultured stone" and one for 1,400 to "strip, fill and repaint with Latex" I like the cheaper quote but I dont want to be in the same situation in 3 yrs. I'd appreciate experienced recommendations - and if the cheaper option is truly viable, isn't that simple enough to do myself?

I was in the same situation a couple years ago.Let me tell you that a painted chimney will look horrible...your best bet will be to repair the blocks with mortar and crepis the whole thing on top of a wire mesh.

thanks for the warning! what do you mean by 'crepis'?